URM's and MD/PhD

[pathdr2b]

I'd like to know why more URM's aren't considering the MD/PhD option. To the best of my knowledge there are only 2 URM's considering this option on the MD/PhD /DO/PhD thread.

I recently received a memo for various job opportunities accorss the country where the prerequisite education for consideration was the MD/PhD. There are some in research circles who believe that in the not to distant future, the MD/PhD wiil be required for those interested in some types of clinical research. I don't know how true this is but it's common knowledge that in the competition for certain residency slots ( surgery, pathology) that MD/PhD graduates have an edge.

Just some food for thought.................................

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[neofight]

A good friend of mine, a URM (GPA: 3.52, MCAT: 33T), was interested in going into clinical research but was discouraged by the competitiveness of getting into Md/Phd programs. As he says, it's hard enough getting into MD programs it's near impossible for Md/Phd programs. He also think's a big time commitment (at least 3+ additional years) and could always be attained later if it becomes a requirement for getting into clinical research.

 

[Thundrstorm]

I'm considering applying to MD/PhD programs...depends how much I can raise my gpa. I'm "1/2" URM

 

[bailey39]

Good luck to you all! I'm also "1/2" and it has been nice to go to interviews and see people of all diferent backgrounds, even if it doesn't seem so on SDN. But you're right Path, the percentage overall (especially for us gals) is low compared to the MD applicant pool.

Hopefully that will change in the future...we can make it a goal that all students/kids learn how cool research is when we become profs and PIs!

 

[isidella]

Originally posted by neofight
A good friend of mine, a URM (GPA: 3.52, MCAT: 33T), was interested in going into clinical research but was discouraged by the competitiveness of getting into Md/Phd programs.

I am not a URM but my stats are very close to that. I have had some success with getting accepted the MD/PhD route. Research experience is key so if your friend has that, he should be in excellent shape to pursue a combined program.

 

[Thundrstorm]

Originally posted by isidella
I am not a URM but my stats are very close to that. I have had some success with getting accepted the MD/PhD route. Research experience is key so if your friend has that, he should be in excellent shape to pursue a combined program.

That's really good to hear. I had one disastrous semester that dropped my 3.7 gpa to a more humble 3.4 and I've started panicking about grades. I feel like I've used up my leeway to make mistakes and I'm doing my best to get my gpa back up above 3.5 or 3.6 I do have research experience going for me though and we'll see how I fare on the August MCAT.

 

[pathdr2b]

A bump in the name of research!!!

 

[SticknRudder]

Having been involved with research all of my undergrad years, I really do want to continue research, to some degree, later on in conjuction with practice.

Having spoken with lots of MD/PhDs, MDs, and others however, I found that there was very little reason for me to go the MD/PhD route. An MD degree takes less time and leaves no limitation on the amount of research that can be done or the availability of funds and research space at universities.. There are MANY fellowship opportunities for MDs to spend time in the lab if they need to brush up on practical skills.

Personally, I decided that I value my time more than having another degree after my name.

Any other takes on why an MD/PhD is any better?

 

[Tone2002]

I'm working in a lab now and was actually enrolled to start a PHD program a year ago, but it wasn't for me. I have no desire to be in a lab or research at all. However the experience was good and has definitely benefitted me.

However, I will just go the MD route.

 

[PreMedPoohBear]

I've been thinking about getting a MD/PH.D, but like one poster said, it's hard enough getting into an MD program. I'm interested in primary care (nephrology actually), but I'm still interested in doing research in renal failure, but I'm only a sophomore so I still have time to think, plus I need to get through Orgo first

 

[MacGyver]

Originally posted by mcbatuofa

Any other takes on why an MD/PhD is any better?

Here's a good analogy:

Suppose you are entered into a cross country race. You have 2 vehicles to choose from: 4x4 Jeep Cherokee, or a Land Rover.

Now, you can get to your destination with EITHER vehicle, but the BEST way to do it is with the Rover.

MD/PhD = Rover

 

[vixenell]

I plan on applying MD/PhD in 2005/6.

 

[Raptor]

I think that the reason that there aren't many minority MD/PHD students is because not many are interested in the research aspect. I think that most are interested in just becoming doctors. In addition, it goes along with there aren't too many specialist doctors that are black in the United States. Not too many black doctors want to be specialists.

 

[SticknRudder]

Originally posted by MacGyver
Here's a good analogy:

Suppose you are entered into a cross country race. You have 2 vehicles to choose from: 4x4 Jeep Cherokee, or a Land Rover.

Now, you can get to your destination with EITHER vehicle, but the BEST way to do it is with the Rover.

MD/PhD = Rover

Eh, I guess... I would never bet the farm on a Land Rover out performing a Jeep - those suckers are built "ready to fall apart". Really odd since the Range Rovers are relatively decent, but back to the issue:

I get what your saying, but I still don't think it's worthwhile for me

 

[pathdr2b]

Bump!